Boat Autopilot Hydraulic Systems Advance by Garmin

Garmin International Inc. launches its new GHP 20 Autopilot with SmartPump at Southampton Boast Show.

Offering one pump size that handles most boat sizes and applications, the GHP 20 Autopilot with SmartPump is a tremendous advancement in hydraulic steering systems.

“Installing dealers will benefit greatly from the GHP 20 Autopilot with SmartPump, as it effectively puts an end to guessing which pump size will work for a particular boat,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales. “And end users will enjoy how 'smart' the GHP 20 is – it can hold course for you in virtually all weather and wind conditions.”

The GHP 20 with SmartPump automatically adjusts the maximum flow rate for a particular boat. Because the GHP 20 with SmartPump uses a brushless motor, there is no direct electrical connection between the drive circuit and the rotor. This provides increased reliability, longer pump life, reduced power consumption, quiet operation, a smaller footprint, improved thermal performance and higher efficiency.

Thanks to Intelligent Rudder Rate Technology (IRRT), the GHP 20 Autopilot with SmartPump slows the rudder rate when the vessel is at high speeds and speeds up rudder rate when the vessel is at lower speeds. This allows for optimal performance and safety in all conditions.

Additionally, the brushless motor drive eliminates the risk of rudder “hard over” due to hardware or software failures.

In addition to holding its course in virtually all weather and wind conditions, the GHP 20 autopilot system can smoothly perform a variety of pre-programmed trolling and search procedures. Plus, with a compatible Garmin network chartplotter and BlueChart g2 Vision charts (sold separately), mariners gain optional features like Auto Guidance, which automatically steers GPS routes.

The GHP 20 Autopilot with SmartPump is operated using up to three of Garmin’s GHC™ 10 autopilot control units, which were designed to help boaters configure and control the autopilot. With an easy-to-read 3.5” color display, three soft keys, and a dedicated “standby” button, users will benefit from the simple, interactive interface, and will be able to control the heading of the boat with the press of a key. The GHC 10 communicates with the autopilot system via NMEA 2000, so autopilot heading data can be shared easily with other devices.

The GHP 20 with SmartPump is scheduled to be available in the fourth quarter of 2012.